Implantation of a Carotid Baroreceptor Stimulator in Patients with Pacemakers and Hypertension

BACKGROUND: The Rheos® System (CVRx, Minneapolis, MN, USA) is an implantable device used to lower blood pressure in patients with resistant hypertension by stimulation of the carotid baroreceptors. It is unknown if interaction might exist between Rheos and conventional pacemakers. METHODS: Compatibility of the Rheos device was tested in four patients with preexisting pacemakers. Intra- and postoperative testing was completed with pacemaker and Rheos settings programmed to provoke interaction. Intracardiac electrograms were printed to determine interaction with the pacemaker. RESULTS: No interaction was observed at maximum atrial and ventricular sensitivity settings and maximum bilateral Rheos output settings. CONCLUSION: Concomitant device therapy with Rheos device and pacemakers can be achieved without interaction.